Migrants Agenda discussed at the first global proclamation rally of Makabayan bloc – Bulatlat

Filipino Migrant Workers Present 10-Point Agenda to Makabayan Coalition Candidates

Hong Kong – Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) gathered ahead of Makabayan coalition’s global proclamation rally, presenting a ten-point agenda that addresses their critical concerns. The rally, held in Hong Kong on february 15, underscored the vital role OFWs play in the Filipino economy and their demands for improved depiction and support.

Key Concerns Highlighted

• Internet Voting preparedness: The agenda stressed the need for robust voter education and sufficient facts dissemination regarding the upcoming online voting system for Filipino overseas voters.Concerns were raised about potential disenfranchisement due to lack of clarity and technical accessibility.
• Access to OWWA Services: Migrants called for improved accessibility to Overseas Workers Welfare administration (OWWA) services and livelihood assistance,advocating for these benefits to be extended beyond OWWA members to all Filipinos in need.
• Living Wage: OFWs joined the broader call for a P1,200 daily minimum wage, citing the rising cost of living and inflation as primary drivers of economic strain.
• Healthcare Reform: The agenda demanded amendments to PhilHealth membership requirements, prohibiting premium hikes, and eliminating compounded interest. It called for a complete healthcare system, not just insurance coverage.
• Accountability of Government Officials: OFWs emphasized the need for accountability and clarity in government, demanding justice for instances of corruption and misuse of public funds.
• Protection of Indigenous Peoples: Concerns were raised about the threats to indigenous communities from large-scale mining activities and the need to safeguard their rights and autonomy.
• Justice for Mary Jane veloso: The case of Mary Jane Veloso, who remains detained despite her homecoming last December, was highlighted. OFWs called for President Marcos Jr.’s administration to grant her clemency and offer closure for her wrongful imprisonment.

Hope for Change Through Political engagement

“We believe that this engagement with Bayan Muna nominees and Makabayan senatorial candidates will bring these issues to Congress and the Senate,” said Lai Besana, spokesperson for Bayan Muna Partylist in Hong Kong. “Without the OFW remittance that has kept the Philippine economy afloat in the last four years, maybe the Philippines would already be doomed,” said Makabayan senatorial candidate and former Bayan Muna Representative Teodoro Casiño. “It is only right that the first proclamation rally during the official campaign period of Makabayan and Bayan Muna was held here,in honor and celebration,as well as to pay tribute to our Filipino migrants,” he continued.

This rally underlined the significant contributions of OFWs to the Philippine economy and their continued struggle for better working conditions, social justice, and representation in the political sphere.

Considering the ten-point agenda presented by OFWs in Hong Kong,what specific actions will the Makabayan coalition take to address the most pressing concerns outlined by workers?

Philippine Politics & OFW Rights: A Conversation withDelegate Besana & Rep. Casiño

Archyde News Exclusive: A Two-Part Interview

Following a powerful rally in Hong Kong, where Filipino migrant workers presented a 10-point agenda to Makabayan coalition candidates, Archyde News had the privilege of interviewing two prominent figures at the forefront of this advocacy. Lai Besana, spokesperson for Bayan Muna Partylist in Hong Kong, and Teodoro Casiño, Makabayan senatorial candidate and former bayan Muna Representative, shared their thoughts on OFW concerns, political engagement, and pathways for change.

Part 1: Understanding OFW Concerns with lai besana

Archyde News: Lai, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start by discussing the ten-point agenda presented by OFWs. Which points do you believe are most urgent and why?

Lai Besana: Thank you for having us. Among the points, the need for internet voting preparedness stands out. With the upcoming elections, it’s crucial that Filipino migrant workers can exercise their right to vote without facing technical barriers or feeling disenfranchised.

Part 2: Advocating for OFWs with Teodoro Casiño

Archyde News: Teodoro, in your view, what sets the Makabayan coalition apart in addressing OFW concerns?

Teodoro Casiño: Makabayan is distinct in recognizing the pivotal role OFWs play in our economy.We not only acknowledge their contributions but also engage with them,ensuring their voices are heard in our policies. Our platform reflects this, with calls for improved access to OWWA services, living wage increases, and healthcare reforms.

Archyde News: Speaking of engagement, how can OFWs further influence Philippine politics and policy, even from abroad?

Teodoro Casiño: OFWs can continue organizing, advocating, and voting. Online voter registration and education is key.They should also keep pushing for policies that protect and empower them. Their remittances keep our economy afloat; their voices should shape our policies.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

Archyde News: To our readers, what’s the most meaningful takeaway from today’s conversation?

Lai Besana: OFWs are not just numbers in remittance statistics.They’re our kababayans working abroad, fighting for a better life, and deserving of our support and depiction. Let’s ensure their voices shape our political agenda.

Teodoro Casiño: Indeed, let’s continue the conversation. What are some other issues you believe are crucial for OFWs, and how can we, as a community, address them?